How Often Should You Clean Skylights

Cleaning skylights is an important part of their maintenance, as dirt, debris, and weathering can reduce their ability to let in natural light and affect their overall appearance. The frequency of cleaning depends on several factors, such as the type of skylight, your location, and the surrounding environment. Here’s a general guide:

1. General Cleaning Frequency

Twice a Year: For most skylights, twice a year (once in the spring and once in the fall) is generally sufficient. These cleanings will help maintain clear views and prevent debris buildup.
More Often in Certain Conditions:
- If you live in an area with a lot of dust, pollen, or pollution, you may need to clean your skylights more frequently (e.g., every 3–4 months).
- In coastal areas where salt from the sea can accumulate on the glass, cleaning might be necessary more often to prevent salt buildup.
- Areas with heavy tree coverage, which may lead to leaves or sap on the skylight, might also require more frequent cleaning.

2. Signs That It’s Time to Clean Your Skylight

Reduced Light: If you notice that your skylight isn’t letting in as much light as it used to, it could be due to dirt, moss, or algae buildup on the dome or glass.
Visible Dirt or Debris: If you can see dirt, leaves, or other debris on the surface of the skylight, it’s time for a cleaning.
Cloudy or Yellowed Surface: If the lens (especially on older acrylic or polycarbonate skylights) appears yellowed, cloudy, or weathered, it may benefit from a cleaning or a more thorough maintenance check.

3. How to Clean Skylights

Materials Needed:
- Soft cloths or microfiber towels
- A mild, non-abrasive cleaning solution (like a mixture of water and dish soap)
- A hose (for external cleaning)
- A ladder or telescoping pole (if the skylight is hard to reach)
- A soft brush (for removing debris without scratching the surface)
Steps for Cleaning:
1. Safety First: Ensure that the ladder is stable and placed on a flat surface, or use a telescoping pole to clean if you’re reaching from the ground.
2. Remove Loose Debris: Use a soft brush or cloth to gently remove leaves, twigs, or dust from the surface of the skylight.
3. Clean the Glass or Dome: Spray the skylight with a hose to rinse off dirt and grime. If necessary, use a mild cleaning solution and a soft cloth to wipe the surface, avoiding abrasive materials that can scratch or damage the skylight.
4. Drying: After cleaning, dry the surface with a microfiber cloth to avoid water spots.

4. Special Considerations for Different Types of Skylights

Glass Skylights: These can be cleaned with the same approach as any standard window. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage any coatings on the glass.
Acrylic or Polycarbonate Skylights: These materials are more prone to scratching and UV damage, so be careful to use non-abrasive cloths and cleaning products. You might also want to apply a UV-protective coating if the surface has started to degrade.
Tubular Skylights: The small dome on top should be cleaned, but the reflective tubing inside usually doesn’t require regular cleaning unless debris has made its way inside. Avoid using harsh chemicals, as the reflective coating inside the tube could be damaged.

5. When to Hire a Professional

While cleaning your skylights is generally a manageable task, there are times when it might be best to call a professional:

Difficult-to-Reach Skylights: If your skylight is in a difficult-to-access location or is very large, professional cleaners have the necessary equipment to do the job safely.
Persistent Issues: If you’ve noticed cracks, leaks, or significant yellowing on the skylight that cleaning cannot address, a professional can inspect it and perform necessary repairs.
Roof Damage: If the roof or flashing around the skylight has been damaged, it’s a good idea to have a roofer inspect and address the issue to prevent leaks.

Conclusion

In general, cleaning skylights twice a year is recommended, with more frequent cleaning if you live in areas prone to heavy dust, tree coverage, or pollution. Regular cleaning helps to maintain the skylight’s clarity and performance, allowing it to provide maximum natural light into your home. Always be gentle to avoid damaging the surface, and consider professional help for high or hard-to-reach skylights.